Relay totals vastly over goal

As the weeks pass organizers of the Kaw Valley Relay for Life seem to keep getting more good news.

Members of the organizational committee and team captains met Tuesday to review the event and total the money raised by the fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. Event co-chairs Sheryl and Chad Chadwick announced that the 12-hour July 22 event raised $114,182.55, shattering the $65,000 goal set by the cancer society.

Nevertheless, the fundraising mark, which placed the total raised in the three-year history of the event over $250,000, came as no surprise to many in the community.

"We've always known what the community can do, that's kind of the way Bonner is," Chad Chadwick said. "But, at the same time, this wasn't just Bonner. We had teams from KCK, Shawnee, Basehor and various church groups involved."

Organizers estimated that more than 650 people participated in the event last month at Bonner Springs High School. Within that participation figure lies the secret to the event's success. Although teams sign up, complete fundraisers and walk laps during the event, additional supporters show up the night of the benefit and pledge their support as well.

"The great thing about it is people don't have to be on a team," Chadwick said. "They can come out, walk, enjoy the evening and participate in a silent auction or (visit) the concession booths."

During this week's meeting the committee also announced the date for the 2006 Kaw Valley Relay, to be held on the same weekend from July 21 to 22.

Although the event was a success by all standards, organizers are constantly looking to improve subsequent relays. Fundraising ventures can never start too early and organizers said two teams planning to participate next year have already scheduled separate fundraising events this fall.

Additionally, the committee will also welcome new members to its ranks to help plan the strategy for next year's relay. To learn more about joining the committee, call the Chadwicks at 441-3632.